Portable system for mounting a solar panel

ABSTRACT

A portable system for mounting a solar panel includes a modular base defining a set of interconnecting components that assemble via a set of intra-assembly features into a portable base for a solar panel. The modular base includes lower and upper relief to provide passive ventilation to the interior of the modular base and recesses to accommodate a user’s appendages during assembly, and ballast volumes to retain a non-rigid ballast to weight the module base holding it in place. The modular base includes adjustable panel retention structures to constrain solar panels of a range of dimensions and configured to carry moisture away from the solar panel. The modular base includes a set of latches and corresponding latch receivers to fix adjacent modular bases together at a fixed distance less than the width of a human hand to form an array.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a continuation application of U.S. Pat. ApplicationNo. 17/729,362, filed on 26-APR-2022, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Application No. 63/180,638, filed on 27-APR-2021, each ofwhich is incorporated in its entirety by this reference.

GOVERNMENT LICENSE RIGHTS

This was made with government support under Grant No. 2014698 awarded bythe National Science Foundation and Grant No. 2020-3755 awarded by theCalifornia Clean Energy Fund, dba, CalCEF Ventures. The government mayhave certain rights in the invention.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to the field of solar energy and morespecifically to a new and useful system for mounting a solar panel atground-level and on flat or low-sloped roofs in a portable manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are schematic representations of a firstsystem;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic representations of one variation of thefirst system;

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D and 3E are schematic represetations of onevariation of the first system;

FIG. 4 is a is a schematic representation of one variation of a secondsystem;

FIG. 5 is a is a flowchart representation of one variation of the secondsystem;

FIG. 6A is a is a flowchart representation of one variation of thesecond system;

FIGS. 6B-6D are schematic representations of one variation of the secondsystem;

FIG. 7 is a is a flowchart representation of one variation of the secondsystem;

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, and 8H are schematic representationsof one variation of the second system;

FIG. 9 is a is a flowchart representation of one variation of the secondsystem;

FIG. 10 is a is a schematic representation of one variation of thesecond system; and

FIG. 11 is a is a schematic representation of one variation of thesecond system.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The following description of embodiments of the invention is notintended to limit the invention to these embodiments but rather toenable a person skilled in the art to make and use this invention.Variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations,and examples described herein are optional and are not exclusive to thevariations, configurations, implementations, example implementations,and examples they describe. The invention described herein can includeany and all permutations of these variations, configurations,implementations, example implementations, and examples.

1. First System

A first system 100 for securing and locating a solar panel 160 forharvesting energy from incident sunlight includes: a chassis 110; and aconnector module 111.

The chassis 110 includes: a body defining a base 113, a perimeter wall115 extending upward a distance from the base 113, a weighting cavitywithin the perimeter wall 115, a solar panel receptacle arranged overthe perimeter wall 115 and forming an acute angle with the base 113, anda storage chamber 117 bounded by the perimeter wall 115 and inset fromthe solar panel receptacle; a set of securing mechanisms 114 arrangedalong the perimeter wall 115 and configured to transiently secure thesolar panel 160 to the solar panel receptacle and over the storagechamber 117; a set of fill ports configured for filling the weightingcavity with weighted material to secure the body on a surface, the setof fill ports arranged within the storage chamber 117 and passingthrough the perimeter wall 115; and a set of docks inset in theperimeter wall 115 on opposing lateral sides of the body and configuredto receive the connector module 111 to connect the body to adjacentchassis 110.

The connector module 111 is: configured to insert into adjacent docks140, 141 in a pair of abutting units of the chassis 110; configured tomechanically connect the pair of abutting units of the chassis 110 toform a linear array of chassis 110; configured to pass electrical wiringbetween the pair of abutting units of the chassis 110 via a channel 112;and retained in docks in the pair of abutting units of the chassis 110by solar panels installed in solar panel receptacles of the pair ofabutting units of the chassis 110. (More specifically, the connectormodule 111 is: configured to insert into adjacent docks in a pair ofabutting units of the chassis 110; configured to mechanically connectthe pair of abutting units of the chassis 110 to form a linear array ofchassis 110; configured to pass electrical wiring between the pair ofabutting units of the chassis 110; and retained in docks in the pair ofabutting units of the chassis 110 by solar panels installed in solarpanel receptacles of the pair of abutting units of the chassis 110.)

In one variation, the first system 100 further includes a direct-powermodule 150: configured to install in a dock 118 in the chassis 110;retained by a solar panel 160 installed in the solar panel receptacle;configured to electrically couple to the solar panel 160 (e.g., via aseparate power conditioning module 151 or a power conditioning moduleintegrated into the direct-power module); and defining an electricalreceptacle 152 configured to receive an electrical plug and to supplyelectrical power from the solar panel 160 to an electronic device viathe electrical plug.

In another variation, the first system 100 further includes a utilitymodule: configured to install in a dock in the chassis 110; retained bya solar panel 160 installed in the solar panel receptacle; configured toelectrically couple to a power inverter 153 arranged in the storagechamber 117 and coupled to the solar panel 160 (or to an array of solarpanels 160 installed in a row of connected units of the chassis 110);and defining an electrical receptacle or an electrical cable configuredto connect to an electrical panel or electrical meter at a building tosupply energy captured by the solar panel(s) to the building.

In another variation, the first system 100 can include: a first wallsegment 130 of a first height; a second wall segment 131 of a secondheight lesser than the first height; a set of securing mechanisms 114arranged along each wall segment and configured to transiently secure asolar panel 160 to the first wall segment 130 and the second wallsegment 131; a set of fill ports configured for filling each wallsegment with weighted material to secure the body on a surface; and aset of docks inset in the first wall segment 130 on opposing lateralsides of the first wall segment 130 and configured to receive theconnector module 111 to connect the system to an adjacent system. Inthis variation, the first wall segment 130 can be secured at varyinglocations along a length of the solar panel 160, thereby adjusting theangle of the solar panel 160 relative to the surface.

1.1 Applications

Generally, the first system 100 forms a solar panel mount configured: toreceive and secure a solar panel; to locate the solar panel at aparticular location, such as on a ground area or on a flat or low-slopedroof; and to orient the solar panel at a particular (fixed) angle atwhich the solar panel harvests energy from incident sunlight. Forexample, the first system 100 can be configured for deployment: with asingle chassis supporting a single solar panel; or as a set of chassissupporting a set of solar panels and connected via connector modules toform a linear solar panel array. Similarly, the first system 100 can beconfigured for: temporary deployment on a ground area (e.g., adjacent agarden to power gardening tools or on a pool deck to power a pool heaterduring summer and fall seasons); mobile deployment on a ground area(e.g., to power electric cattle fencing as a herd is moved betweenpastures); permanent deployment on a ground area (e.g., to power agroundwater well year-round); semi-permanent deployment on a roof (e.g.,to augment grid power for a tenant occupying a rented single- ormulti-family home); or permanent deployment on a roof (e.g., to augmentgrid power for a homeowner). Solar panel systems enable a property ownerand/or tenant to reduce their electricity bills, invest in renewableenergy sources, reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, combatgreenhouse gas emissions, increase the value of their property, or somecombination thereof.

In particular, the first system 100 can enable an owner (e.g., propertyowner, a tenant) to assemble and install a solar panel (or an array ofsolar panels) on a property without requiring: elaborate orlabor-intensive structural alterations to the property (e.g., a roof);skilled or specialized labor for assembly and installation (therebyreducing upfront installation costs and maintenance costs over time);permanent installation in a fixed or singular location (e.g., on aroof); a permanent solar panel configuration (e.g., a number andarrangement of solar panels); or installation on a roof of a particulartype (e.g., a roof of slope greater than 1:12). Rather, the first system100 defines a portable solar panel mounting solution: containing alimited number of parts; requiring minimal tools to assemble; configuredto deploy with one solar panel on one chassis or with many solar panelson many interconnected units of the chassis; and configured fortemporary, mobile, or permanent installation on the ground, on a flatroof, or on a sloped roof.

1.1.1 Grid-Isolated Installation

Furthermore, the first system 100 includes a hollow, lightweight chassisof a size and weight that enables direct shipping to the owner’sproperty. For example, upon receipt, the owner may assemble a completesolar installation by: abutting units of the chassis at or near apreferred solar energy capture location (e.g., in a grassy area near agarden, on a flat roof, along a pool deck); inserting connector modulesin adjacent first and second docks of abutting chassis; positioningpower electronics (e.g., for 12 VDC, 120 VAC, and/or 240 VAC outputs)for these solar panels in the storage chamber in one or more of thesechassis; inserting a first direct-power module (e.g., with 12 VDC and120 VAC outputs) into the first dock of a first chassis at a first endof the set of connected chassis; inserting a second direct-power module(e.g., with a 240 VAC output) into the second dock of a second chassisat a second end of the set of connected chassis; filling weightingcavities in these chassis - accessed from within their storage chambersvia the fill ports -with water, sand, or other weighted material;connecting these solar panels to the power electronics and direct-powermodules by routing electrical wiring through the connector modules; andinstalling and locking solar panels to each solar panel receptacle(e.g., with the only requisite tool to lock the securing mechanisms onthe solar panels). The owner may then immediately use the solar panelassembly by: connecting DC electronic devices (e.g., a backup batterystorage module or electric vehicle charging station) to the firstdirect-power-module; connecting 120 VAC electronic devices (e.g., anelectric weed whacker, an outdoor heater, construction tools) to thefirst direct-power-module; or connecting 240 VAC electronic devices(e.g., a washing machine, a pool heater) to the seconddirect-power-module.

Therefore, the owner may deploy and immediately operate the first system100 and a set of a solar panels with as little as a single tool, withminimal or no specialized skills, and without permanently installing thefirst system 100 or modifying her property.

Additionally, the first system 100 can be shipped in packaging that canbe repurposed as a reusable cover, for example, that an owner may use toprotect their solar panel first system 100 (e.g., when covering and/orremoving and storing their solar panel first system 100 during potentialsevere weather conditions and/or while away on vacation).

1.1.2 Grid-Connected Installation

In a similar example, to connect the first system 100 to the electricalgrid and/or an electrical panel in her home, the owner may exchange thesecond direct-power module for a utility module. An electrician may thenwire the utility module to the electrical panel or electrical meter atthe owner’s home to complete the installation. Furthermore, whilewaiting for the electrician to complete this wiring installation, theowner may continue to use the first system 100 by connecting electronicdevices to the first direct-power module.

1.1.3 Moving and Disassembly

At a later time, the owner may move the first system 100 to a newlocation. The owner may: remove the solar panels from the solar panelreceptacles; empty the weighting cavities; and move these lightenedchassis to a new location (e.g., at the same or different property),orientation (e.g., to better track the Sun), or distribution (e.g., one6-chassis assemble in one location to two 3-chassis assemblies in twodifferent locations) before reweighting the chassis and reinstalling thesolar panels.

1.1.4 Security

In addition, the first system 100 is formed in a unitary, compact mannerin which several security features are inherently built into thestructure. In particular, the first system 100 transiently secures asolar panel to the solar panel receptacle atop the first system 100 witha set of securing mechanisms and covers the storage chamber within thechassis of the first system 100, such that only an authorized personwith a key to the set of securing mechanisms can remove the solar panelfrom the first system 100 and access the storage chamber. Within thestorage chamber, the first system 100 can house a set of electricalcomponents and wiring (e.g., a set of inverters and/or batteries). Inaddition, a set of fill ports and drains can be arranged within thestorage chamber for filling and draining the weighting cavity of thefirst system 100 with weighted material (e.g., water, sand).Accordingly, once filled with weighted material, the first system 100 isweighted down against a surface such that it may be difficult for aperson to carry and/or move the first system 100 (even though the firstsystem 100 may not be mounted or connected to a permanent structure).Further, the weighting cavity can only be emptied by accessing the setof drains within the storage cavity (e.g., by an authorized person withthe key to remove the solar panel from the first system 100). Therefore,the first system 100 can be moved only after the solar panel is removedand the weighted material is drained from the weighting cavity, therebyreducing the likelihood of tampering or theft of the first system 100and protecting electronics housed within the first system 100.

1.1.5 System Care and Maintenance

Moreover, the first system 100 can be installed at ground-level, whichenables an owner to care for the solar panel first system 100 themselvesand perform most self-maintenance, such as washing the solar panels,repositioning and/or reorienting the first system 100, and removing andstoring the solar panel if needed (e.g., due to severe weatherconditions or during travel), thereby minimizing the need to hireskilled labor to complex maintenance or repairs of the solar panel firstsystem 100. Further, due to the portable and streamlined structure ofthe first system 100, rental tenants can invest in solar energy withoutthe complications of altering a rental property and can retain theirinvestment as they move and relocate to different properties throughoutdifferent phases of life.

Accordingly, the first system 100 can: significantly reduce bothinstallation costs and time to useful operation of a solar panel firstsystem 100; form a secure, self-contained solar energy unit thatinhibits theft and tampering; and support modular deployment of a solarenergy solution within one property and across multiple properties overtime for both property owners and tenants.

1.2 Structure

In one example implementation, the first system 100 can include achassis formed of a unitary structure that defines the main body of thefirst system 100. The chassis body defines: a base; a hollow perimeterwall extending upward from the base, wherein top edges of lateral sidesof the perimeter wall are angled relative to the base (e.g., at a10-degree or 18-degree slope, or at a slope there-between); a weightingcavity within the perimeter wall; a solar panel receptacle arranged overthe perimeter wall and forming an acute angle with the base (i.e., asolar angle of the first system 100 at which the solar panel is orientedwhen mounted to the chassis); and a storage chamber bounded by theperimeter wall and inset from the solar panel receptacle. In oneexample, the chassis can include a set of handles for lifting, moving,and/or positioning the first system 100 (e.g., during installationand/or relocation of the first system 100). The chassis can furtherinclude a set of airflow channels to improve the flow of air within thestorage chamber of the first system 100.

The first system 100 can further include a set of securing mechanismsarranged along a top portion of the perimeter wall of the chassis, eachsecuring mechanism configured to transiently secure a solar panel to thesolar panel receptacle atop the chassis and over the storage chamber.One or more of the securing mechanisms can include a keyed lock suchthat only an owner with a key can open the securing mechanisms andrelease the solar panel from the chassis. In one example shown in FIGS.1A-1D, the first system 100 includes 6 securing mechanisms, with foursecuring mechanisms arranged at each corner of the solar panel and twosecuring mechanisms arranged at the centers of the longitudinal edges ofthe solar panel.

In one example, the chassis can include a set of fill ports configuredfor filling the weighting cavity (i.e., of the perimeter wall) withweighted material (e.g., water, sand) to secure the first system 100 ona surface and minimize movement of the first system 100 (e.g., due towind and other environmental conditions, tampering, theft, etc.). Theset of fill ports can be arranged on an internal face of the chassissuch that the fill ports can only be accessed if the solar panel isremoved from the first system 100 (i.e., the weight inside the chassiscan only be emptied by authorized persons), thereby minimizing the riskof tampering or theft of the solar panel first system 100 due to thesignificant weight of the first system 100. In one example, the chassiscan include a set of fill level indicators that each indicate adifferent fill level to which the weighting cavity of the chassis can beloaded with weight (e.g., a recommended minimum fill level, maximum filllevel, and fill levels in between). For example, an owner who lives inan area with high winds may choose to fill the chassis to a maximum filllevel to prevent high winds from moving and/or overturning the firstsystem 100 and causing damage to the solar panel. In addition, thechassis can include a drain to remove the weighted material inside theweighting cavity of the chassis in the event that an owner wants toreposition and/or relocate the first system 100. The drain can bearranged on an internal face of the chassis such that the drain can onlybe accessed by removing the solar panel atop the chassis (i.e., by anowner with the key).

In one example, the chassis can further include a set of holes intowhich a set of mounting stakes can be driven to secure the first system100 to the ground. In addition, the chassis can include a set of ridgesand/or channels along the perimeter wall of the chassis to enable waterrunoff and prevent water collection on the first system 100 andpotential water damage to any electronics of the first system 100.Additionally and/or alternatively, the chassis can include a set ofairflow channels to improve the flow of air within the storage chamberof the first system 100 (e.g., to prevent overheating of any electronicslocated within the storage chamber).

The first lateral side of the perimeter wall defines a first dock andthe second lateral side of the perimeter wall defines a second dock,wherein the first dock and the second dock are configured to receive aconnector module (for electrically connecting adjacent systems 100, forexample, in an array of solar panels), a utility module (forelectrically connecting the first system 100 to a utility meter), or adirect-power module (for powering a set of devices electricallyconnected to the first system 100). In one example shown in FIGS. 1B and1C, the first dock and the second dock define similar geometries:arranged on the lateral sections of the perimeter wall of the body; andsymmetric (e.g., “mirrored”) across the sagittal plane of the body. Eachof the first and second docks can also: be symmetric across a planeparallel to the coronal plane of the body; and form an upward-facing(e.g., a “U-shaped”) relief along its corresponding segment of theperimeter wall.

Generally, the connector module can electrically connect the firstsystem 100 to adjacent systems 100 in an array of solar panel systems100. In one example, the connector module can include: a body that nestswithin a dock of a first unit of the chassis; and a mating protrusionthat extends from the body of the connector module and is configured tointerlock with a dock of a second, adjacent unit of the chassis of anarray of solar panel systems 100. The connector module can furtherinclude a channel extending from a first end to a second end of theconnector module for passing electrical wires from the first unit of thechassis to the second, adjacent unit of the chassis, thereby forming asecure connection between adjacent solar panel systems 100 in whichelectrical wiring is concealed from the elements of the environment andpossible tampering. Therefore, when first and second units of thechassis are abutted with a dock of the first unit facing a dock of thesecond unit, a connector module may be inserted into and may span thedock of the first unit and the dock of the second unit, therebymechanically coupling the first unit of the chassis to the second unitof the chassis. Electrical wiring may then be passed between the firstand second units of the chassis via the connector module. A first solarpanel installed and locked in a first solar panel receptacle of thefirst unit of the chassis can retain the connector module in the dock ofthe first unit of the chassis, and a second solar panel installed andlocked in a second solar panel receptacle of the second unit of thechassis can similarly retain the connector module in the dock of thesecond unit of the chassis. Therefore, assembly of the connector modulebetween the first and second units of the chassis and installation ofsolar panels on the first and second chassis units can: require minimaltools (e.g., only a tool to lock securing mechanisms on the chassis tothe solar panels); secure electrical components within the storagechambers in these chassis; mechanically lock and retain the chassis in alinear array; and manage electrical cable routing between solar panels.

Generally, the utility module can electrically connect the first system100 to a utility meter located on the property of the owner. In oneexample, the utility module can include: a body that nests within a dockof a first system 100; an internal face that is exposed within thestorage chamber of the chassis; and an external face that is exposedoutside of the chassis to the external environment. The internal face ofthe utility module can include an outlet for connecting a set of cablesfrom the solar panel and/or a set of batteries housed within the firstsystem 100, and the external face can include an outlet for connecting acable from the first system 100 to the utility meter. In an alternateimplementation, the utility module can include a window for passing aset of electrical wires/cables from the first system 100 directly to anexternal inverter and/or a utility meter of the property.

Generally, the direct-power module can include a set of electricalconnections for the owner to temporarily power a desired device via thefirst system 100 and can be placed in a dock on an end of a first system100 that is not connected to an adjacent first system 100 or a utilitymeter, thereby concealing the internal area of the first system 100 fromthe external environment and maintaining the security of the firstsystem 100. In one example, the direct-power module can include: a bodythat nests within a dock of a first system 100; an internal face that isexposed within the storage chamber of the chassis; and an external facethat is exposed outside of the chassis to the external environment. Theinternal face can electrically connect directly to the solar paneland/or a battery within the first system 100. The external face caninclude a set of power sockets with different plug types and voltages(e.g., type A or type C or 120 v or 240 v, based on an owner’selectrical needs), one or more USB ports, or some combination thereof,such that an owner can connect a desired device to the first system 100and power the device with the electricity produced and/or converted bythe solar panel.

In one example, the first system 100 can include: a set of invertersarranged in the storage chamber; and configured to convert a DC powersignal output from the solar panel into a conditioned power signal(e.g., a 120-Volt single-phase AC signal, and 12-Volt DC signal) matchedto an energy sink connected to the first system 100 (e.g., via theutility module). Additionally and/or alternatively, the first system 100can include a set of batteries for storing AC electricity for laterusage. In this example, the first system 100 can include an insertabletray that can be nested within the perimeter wall of the chassis andserve as a base enclosure for the storage chamber in which the set ofinverters and/or the set of batteries can be securely stored within thefirst system 100 and remain sheltered from environmental conditionsand/or unwanted tampering. In one example, the insertable tray is offset(e.g., by 1 inch or more) from the chassis to create a channel forairflow for the electronics housed within the first system 100 (i.e., tominimize overheating of the electronics).

Accordingly, the first system 100 can secure the solar panel atop thechassis and orient the solar panel at an angle relative to the base ofthe chassis, thereby forming a secure, self-contained first system 100that enables the solar panel to harvest energy from incident sunlight.

1.3 Manufacturing via Rotational Molding

Given the unitary structure of the first system 100, the first system100 can be manufactured via a rotational molding (i.e., rotomolding)process using thermoplastic materials (e.g., polyethylene polymers).Rotational molding involves: creating a hollow mold in a shape of aparticular structure; filling the mold with a determined amount ofthermoplastic material; heating the mold to a particular temperature tosoften the thermoplastic material within the mold; and rotating the moldabout a set of axes, thereby causing the heated material to disperse andadhere to the perimeter wall of the mold. In one example, the mold caninclude a set of features built into the structure of the mold, such asinserts (e.g., for metal threads, fasteners, internal channels andstructures, and other features), text, and/or logos. By manufacturingthe first system 100 via rotational molding, the first system 100 isformed with a uniform wall thickness throughout the produced part, ahollow weighting cavity within the perimeter wall, and a minimal needfor post-processing (final finishes and touches to the produced part),thereby reducing manufacturing costs and increasing potential savingsfor an owner.

In one implementation, the first system 100 can be manufactured via therotational molding process using food grade plastic (e.g., plasticsuitable for contact with consumable food or drink products) such thatpotable drinking water can be stored within the weighting cavity.

1.4 Modularity

In one implementation, the chassis can be formed of a set of smallerparts that, when assembled, form the body of the first system 100. Forexample, the chassis can include: a set of wall segments configured tobe manually assembled, each wall segment including a mating end thatinterfaces with a reciprocal mating end of an adjacent wall segment anda set of securing mechanisms arranged along the mating ends to secureadjacent wall segments together. In one example, the mating end caninclude an interlocking mechanism such that a portion of each wallsegment fits into a reciprocal portion of an adjacent wall segment. Inthis implementation, each wall segment can include its own fill port,cap, and drain for filling and draining the respective weighting cavityof the wall segment.

In another implementation illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3EE, the chassis caninclude a first wall segment and a second wall segment configured totransiently secure to opposing ends of the solar panel. In thisimplementation, each wall segment can include its own fill port, cap,and drain for filling and draining the respective weighting cavity ofthe wall segment. As illustrated in FIG. 3C, each wall segment can bedisassembled from the solar panel and arranged in a compact manner.

By modularizing the chassis, the first system 100 can be packaged forshipping to an owner in an unassembled state, thereby compacting thevolume of the shipping package and reducing the shipping footprint andassociated costs for the owner.

1.5 Alternate Orientations

While FIGS. 1-2 illustrate the first system 100 in a “landscape”orientation in which the first system 100 is angled along its longeredge, in another implementation, the first system 100 can be angledalong its shorter edge in a “portrait” orientation, such as isillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3E. An owner may select an orientation of thefirst system 100 based on features of their property, such as availablearea, shading on the property, a topography of the property, and otherrelevant information.

In one example, the first system 100 can include a rotating mount thatrotatably secures a solar panel to the chassis, such that the solarpanel can be rotated between a landscape orientation and a portraitorientation relative to the chassis. In this implementation, the chassiscan define a body that is smaller than an area of the solar panel suchthat the chassis is generally concealed by the solar panel when indifferent orientations. Additionally and/or alternatively, the rotatingmount can include a motor that electrically adjusts the orientation ofthe frame securing the solar panel (e.g., on a single axis).Additionally and/or alternatively, the solar panel can be rotated to aset of different angles between the landscape orientation and theportrait orientation. Accordingly, an owner can further customize theorientation of the first system 100 based on the features of theirproperty.

1.6 Adjustable Solar Angle

Generally, the first system 100 defines a solar angle of the solar panelsecured to the first system 100, the solar angle representing the angleat which the solar panel is rotated about its horizontal axis. WhileFIGS. 1-2 illustrate the first system 100 defining a solar angle of 18degrees (defined by the tapered angle of the lateral walls of thechassis), in other implementations, the first system 100 can enable theowner to adjust and customize the solar angle of the solar panel securedto the first system 100, such as is illustrated in FIG. 3D.

In one implementation, the first system 100 can include a set of presetangle variations for adjusting the orientation of the solar panelmounted to the first system 100 to different solar angles, for example,based on a location of the first system 100 (e.g., latitudinal andlongitudinal coordinates), day-to-day weather conditions, topographicalfeatures of the property of the owner, and other relevant factors. Forexample, the first system 100 can orient the solar panel at solar anglesof 0, 10, 20, 30, -10, -20, -30 degrees (relative to the base of thefirst system 100) or other suitable angles for capturing a sufficientamount of sunlight (e.g., above a defined threshold based on currentweather conditions, such as at least 80% of the expected amount ofsunlight).

In one example, the first system 100 can include: a single axis gimbalmount that connects the solar panel receptacle to the chassis andenables rotation of the solar panel relative to the chassis along anaxis of the solar panel (e.g., a horizontal axis, i.e., “roll”). Thefirst system 100 can further include a rotatable handle on a side of thefirst system 100 that connects to the single axis gimbal mount andenables an owner to adjust the solar panel to a desired solar angle(e.g., by turning the handle clockwise or counterclockwise to tilt thesolar panel). In another example, the first system 100 can include adouble axis gimbal mount that connects the solar panel receptacle to thechassis and enables an owner to adjust the solar panel along two axes ofthe solar panel (e.g., a horizontal axis and a vertical axis, i.e.,“roll” and “pitch”). The solar panel receptacle and gimbal mount can benested within the top portion of the chassis such that, at any angle ofthe solar panel, the edges of the solar panel remain nested within thechassis (i.e., no exposed edges) to avoid gaps between the solar paneland the chassis and to maintain the security of the solar panel and anycomponents (e.g., battery) secured within the storage chamber of thechassis.

In another example, the first system 100 can include: a sliding trackattached to a top portion of the chassis walls along which the solarpanel receptacle could adjustably slide and lock the solar panel intoposition at a desired solar angle. The solar panel receptacle canfurther include a handle that enables an owner to grasp the solar panelreceptacle and position the solar panel and varying positions along thesliding track, each position securing the solar panel at a differentsolar angle.

Additionally and/or alternatively, the first system 100 can include amotorized mount connected to the solar panel and/or solar panelreceptacle to electrically adjust the solar angle of the solar panel(e.g., on a single axis or double axes). For example, the motorizedmount can adjust the solar angle throughout a day based on anorientation of the sun as it moves throughout the sky on a given day.Additionally and/or alternatively, the first system 100 can monitor anamount of light received by the solar panel (e.g., via an integratedsensor and/or an amount of electricity produced by photovoltaic cells ofthe solar panel) and modify the solar angle of the solar panel such thatthe amount of electricity produced exceeds a defined threshold.

In one implementation, the first system 100 can include a bubble levelwith a set of indicators for different angles to which an owner canadjust the solar panel. The bubble level can be arranged on an externalface of the first system 100, on the frame securing the solar panel,and/or on the solar panel. Additionally and/or alternatively, an ownercan reference the bubble level during an installation of the firstsystem 100 to determine if the first system 100 is installed at a levelangle relative to the ground.

1.7 Integrations

Additionally and/or alternatively, the first system 100 can integratewith a phone application and/or software platform that enables an ownerto install, monitor, adjust, and/or maintain their solar panel firstsystem 100. The first system 100 can include a set of different types ofsensors that capture relevant data about the first system 100 andtransmit the data to the integrated application, which can then transmitinformation and analysis to the owner for optimizing the performance oftheir first system 100 during installation and/or over a period ofoperating time of the first system 100.

In one implementation, the integrated application can transmitinformation and/or recommendations to owners to facilitate theinstallation process of the first system 100. For example, theintegrated application can utilize techniques such as augmented and/ormixed reality (to visualize an owner’s property) and/or machine learningto generate recommendations for an optimal placement of the first system100 on an owner’s property (e.g., based on an amount of availablesunlight, a type of soil, a topographical analysis of the property, andother factors), a potential size of solar panels for the owner’sproperty, a potential orientation of the solar panels, and otherrelevant recommendations.

In one implementation, the integrated application can transmitinstructions to the first system 100. For example, if the first system100 includes a solar panel frame connected to a motorized mount, anowner may select a solar angle and/or orientation via the integratedapplication and remotely adjust the solar angle and/or orientation oftheir first system 100 (e.g., if the owner: is away on vacation, detectsupcoming weather events, or wants to improve the performance of theirsolar panel first system 100).

In another implementation, the integrated application can monitor aperformance of the solar panels based on an amount of sunlight absorbedby the panels and/or an amount of electricity produced and/or convertedby the first system 100 (e.g., by a set of sensors within the firstsystem 100 that monitor an amount of electricity produced and/orconverted by the solar panel. For example, the integrated applicationcan: detect a decrease in performance of the solar panel first system100 over a period of time (due to seasonal weather changes, upgradesand/or maintenance needed to the first system 100, changes to theavailable sunlight on the property, and other factors); generaterecommendations to increase the output in electricity of the solar panelfirst system 100 by rotating or moving the first system 100, repairingand/or upgrading the first system 100, and/or washing the solar panel;and transmit the recommendations to a device (e.g., a mobile computingdevice, laptop, and/or desktop) of the owner.

Additionally and/or alternatively, the first system 100 can include acompass sensor that captures orientation data (e.g. latitudinal and/orlongitudinal coordinates, latitudinal and/or longitudinal rotation) ofthe first system 100 and/or the solar panel secured to the first system100. The integrated application can interpret and factor in theorientation data into its recommendations for optimal placement and/ororientation of the first system 100.

1.8 Location Tracking

An owner may select different types of customizations for the modules(i.e., connector module, utility module, direct-power module). Forexample, different types of sensors can be embedded within one or moreof the modules according to the needs of the owner (e.g., one or more ofthe sensors described above).

In one example, one or more of the modules can include an accelerometerconfigured to detect movement of the first system 100. In response todetecting movement via the accelerometer, the first system 100 can flagthe event and transmit an alert to the owner. In one example, the firstsystem 100 can transmit the alert in response to detecting movementabove a predefined threshold (i.e., due to severe weather conditionsand/or tampering or theft of the first system 100).

Additionally and/or alternatively, one or more of the modules caninclude a Wi-Fi-enabled and/or a cellular/GPS-enabled chip to track theposition of the first system 100. In one example, the first system 100can: activate the cellular/GPS-enabled chip to track the position of thefirst system 100 in response to the first system 100 detecting movementabove a predefined threshold; and transmit an alert to the ownerindicating the detected movement, thereby enabling an owner to determinea location of the first system 100 when a particular event occurs.

In one implementation, the set of sensors can integrate with the phoneapplication and/or software platform described herein, such that theowner can receive alerts and stay informed about the status of theirfirst system 100, even while away from the property on which the firstsystem 100 is installed.

1.9 Roof Variation

In one implementation, the first system 100 can serve as a roof mountfor securing a solar panel atop a pitched roof of a property building.In this implementation, the first system 100 can include a set of hooksand/or loops within the chassis such that a first unit of the firstsystem 100 can be arranged on a first side of a pitched roof, a secondunit of the first system 100 can be arranged on a second side of thepitched roof, and a set of cables can connect the first unit of thefirst system 100 and the second unit of the first system 100 via thehooks and/or loops (i.e., the first and second units of the first system100 straddle the peak of the roof and counterbalance each other). Inthis implementation, the chassis can include walls that are tapered at adifferent angle to account for the pitch angle of the roof (e.g., a5-degree slope). Accordingly, the first system 100 for the pitched roofcan secure a set of solar panels to a roof without perforating the roofand creating concerns and/or anxiety for the property owner/tenant aboutpotential damage to the roof. Additionally and/or alternatively, thefirst system 100 can include components for an adjustable solar angle asdescribed herein, such that the solar angle of the first system 100 canbe conveniently customized for a particular pitch angle of a propertybuilding.

2. Second System

A second system 200 for securing and locating a solar panel forharvesting energy from incident sunlight includes: a module base 210;and a solar panel 290.

The module base 210 includes: a left component 220 defining a lefttriangular structure with a left front edge of a front height, a leftrear edge of a rear height greater than the front height and set of leftintra-assembly features 221; a right component 230 defining a righttriangular structure with a right front edge of the front height, aright rear edge of the rear height and set of right intra-assemblyfeatures 231; a front fascia component 240 configured to couple to theleft component 220 via the set of left intra-assembly features 221,configured to couple to the right component 230 via the set of rightintra-assembly features 231 and defining a front ballast support surface241; a rear fascia component 250 configured to couple to the leftcomponent 220 via the set of left intra-assembly features 221,configured to couple to the right component 230 via the set of rightintra-assembly features 231, and defining a rear ballast support surface251; a front ballast 260 defining a front enclosed volume configured toretain a front volume of fluid and configured to seat on the frontballast support surface 241 to load a front section 211 of the modulebase 210; a rear ballast 270 defining a rear enclosed volume configuredto retain a rear volume of fluid and configured to seat on the rearballast support surface 251 to load a rear section 212 of the modulebase 210; a front panel retention structure 243 fixed to a front sectionupper surface 213 of the module base 210 and configured to retain afront edge 294 of a solar panel 290 on the module base 210; and a rearpanel retention structure 282 fixed to a rear section upper surface 214of the module base 210 and adjustable over a range of longitudinalpositions to retain the rear edge 292 of the solar panel 290 on themodule base 210.

In another implementation, the second system 200 includes all the samecomponents except for the ballasts and ballast supports surfaces, thesystem being self-ballasted.

2.1 Applications

Similar to the first system 100 described above, the second system 200forms a module base 210 configured: to receive and secure a solar panel290; to locate the solar panel 290 at a particular location, such as ona ground area or on a flat or low-sloped roof; and to orient the solarpanel 290 at a particular (fixed) angle at which the solar panel 290harvests energy from incident sunlight. The second system 200 is:configured to pack flat in a storage configuration for storage andshipment of the second system 200; and configured to assemble via a setof intra-assembly features without the use of tools. The second system200 ships with empty ballast configured to insert into and beconstrained by the module base 210. The ballast accepts and seals withinthe ballast a non-rigid ballast material (i.e., a volume of water) toweigh down the module base 210 and prevent unintended movement while inoperation. In another implementation, the ballast, 260, 270 isconfigured to ship secured to a portion of the module base. In anotherimplementation, the ballast is an integral part of the module base, 210or its components.

The module base 210 includes a set of solar panel retention structuresthat guide, support, and constrain a solar panel 290 on the module base210. The front panel retention structure 243 is fixed to a forwardsection 240 of the module base 210 and defines a clamping featurecapable of accommodating and securing solar panels 290 of a range ofthicknesses. The rear panel retention structure 282 is fixed to aclosing panel 286 of the module base 210 and defines a channel 252 and aretention insert 253 configured to run along the channel 252 and isthereby adjustable over a range of longitudinal positions to accommodatesolar panels of various lengths. The retention insert 253 couples to arear clamping feature 255 capable of accommodating and securing solarpanels with a range of thicknesses. The channel 252 also functions totransport moisture away from the retention insert 253 and the undersideof the solar panel 290, and deposit it below the solar panel 290.

The module base 210 includes upper relief sections 222, 232 and lowerrelief sections 223, 233 that: provide areas that accept a humanappendage (i.e., a hand or a foot) while assembling the second system200; and provide passive ventilation between the interior and exteriorof the module base 210 during operation of the second system 200. In onevariation, the module base 210 can include integral stiffening ribs. Thestiffening ribs can be separate components that are attached or adheredto the rear fascia component 250 or the forward section 240, leftcomponent 220, or the right component 230.

The module base 210 includes an electrical port 224 through which anelectrical output connected to the solar panel 290 passes to beconnected to an adjacent module base 210, or an external device thatrequires power.

The lower edges of module base 210 components include a set ofadjustable contact surfaces 299 that engage an uneven surface atindividual distances in order to facilitate stable contact with theuneven terrain. The module base 210 also includes a set of latches 229(and corresponding latch receivers 239) that can be engaged individuallyor collectively to ensure a target gap is maintained at one edge betweentwo adjoined module bases in an array configuration, and simultaneouslyallow a variable gap between an opposite edge. The latches can beengaged in different combinations in different pairs of module bases inorder to allow the array to flex with the contour of an undulatingsurface, including both concave and convex segments. In oneimplementation, the target gap is defined as less than the nominalthickness of a human hand, to reduce the likelihood of unintendedcontact with the electrical connection passing between any two modulebases, and thereby reduce the likelihood of potential injury.

The module base 210 can be disassembled and re-arranged in the flat packconfiguration for storage when not in use. The ballast can be drainedand removed from the module base 210 during disassembly, and the modulebase 210 components can disengage without the use of tools. However, insome variations, the module base 210 components can be assembled withintra-assembly features that accept tools.

2.2 Single Module

Generally, the module base 210 components arrive at the user’sdestination, arranged in a nested configuration in a storage case 202.

In one implementation as shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, the second system 200includes a storage case 202 in which the left component 220 and theright component 230 are configured to nest in the storage case 202 withthe left top edge of the left component 220 facing the right top edge ofthe right component 230 for shipping; and the front ballast 260, rearballast 270, front façade, and rear fascia are configured to nest belowthe left component 220 and the right component 230 in the storage case202 for shipping. In the present implementation, the left component 220,right component 230, front component, rear component, and closing panel286 are each formed as a hollow molded polymer part.

The storage case 202 opens to display a first layer of components nestedwithin the storage container including the left component 220 and theright component 230, the left component 220 arranged with the top edgeof the left component 220 adjacent to the top edge of the rightcomponent 230. The left component 220 and the right component 230separate from the storage case 202 to display a second layer ofcomponents in the storage case 202 including the front ballast 260, rearballast 270, front fascia component 240, rear fascia component 250, andclosing panel 286, arranged in a nested configuration within the storagecase 202. The components in the second layer separate from the storagecase 202 and assemble into the module base 210 by connecting the leftcomponent 220 to a first end of the front fascia component 240 and afirst end of the rear fascia component 250 via a set of intra-assemblyfeatures; and connecting the right component 230 to a second end of thefront fascia component 240 and a second end of the rear fascia component250 via the set of intra-assembly features.

2.2.1 Intra-Assembly Features

In one implementation as shown in FIG. 6D, the set of intra-assemblyfeatures 221, 231 includes a set of fasteners and a set of receivers.Each fastener is configured to pass through a first component and insertwithin the corresponding receiver of a second component and affix thefirst component to the second component. In one variation, the set ofintra-assembly features includes a threaded bolt as the fastener and athreaded nut as the receiver. In another variation, the set ofintra-assembly features includes a threaded bolt includinghand-tightening wings as the fastener, configured to pass through afirst component and insert within a threaded recess in the secondcomponent, thereby affixing the first component to the second component.In another variation, the fastener is a quick-connect fastener, such asa cam-hasp fastener, and the receiver is a latch. However, the secondsystem 200 can include any suitable method of quickly and repeatablyconnecting and disconnecting a first component and a second component.

2.2.2 Ballast

As shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, the front fascia component 240 defines a frontballast support surface 241, and the rear fascia component 250 defines arear ballast support surface 251. The front ballast 260 defines a frontenclosed volume configured to retain a front volume of fluid and isconfigured to seat on the front ballast support surface 241 to load afront section 211 of the module base 210. The rear ballast 270 defines arear enclosed volume configured to retain a rear volume of fluid and isconfigured to seat on the rear ballast support surface 251 to load arear section 212 of the module base 210. The left component 220 defines:a rear ballast fill window 225 proximal the rear edge of the leftcomponent 220, a rear ballast drain window 226 proximal the rear edge ofthe left component 220 and below the rear ballast 270 fill window 225, afirst front ballast fill window 227 proximal the first front edge of thefirst left component 220, and a first front ballast drain window 226proximal the first front edge of the first left component 220 and belowthe first front ballast fill window 227.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the rear ballast 270 defines: a rear ballast fillneck 273 configured to align with the rear ballast fill window 225, anda rear ballast drain neck 274 configured to align with the rear ballastdrain window 226 of the left component 220 when the rear ballast 270inserts into the rear fascia component 250 and rests on the rear ballastsupport surface 251. A rear ballast fill cap 275 configured to installon the rear ballast fill neck 273 and accessible through the rearballast fill window 225 of the left component 220 to fill the rearballast 270 with the rear volume of fluid, and a rear ballast drain cap276 configured to install on the rear ballast drain neck 274 andaccessible through the rear ballast drain window 226 to drain the rearvolume of fluid from the rear ballast 270.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the front ballast 260 defines: a front ballast fillneck 263 configured to align with the front ballast fill window 227 ofthe left component 220, and a front ballast drain neck 264 configured toalign with the front ballast drain window 228 of the left component 220when the front ballast 260 inserts into the front fascia component 240and rests on the front ballast support surface 241. The second system200 further includes a front ballast fill cap 265 configured to installon the front ballast fill neck 263 and accessible through the frontballast fill window 227 to fill the front ballast 260 with the frontvolume of fluid, a front ballast drain cap 266 configured to install onthe front ballast drain neck 264 and accessible through the frontballast drain window 228 to drain the front volume of fluid from thefront ballast 260.

The rear ballast fill cap 275 detaches from the rear ballast 270 fillneck 273. A liquid source, such as water from the user’s garden hose,connects to the rear ballast 270 fill neck 273, and the rear ballast 270fills with a volume of liquid. The rear ballast fill cap 275 attaches tothe rear ballast fill neck 273 to seal the rear ballast 270 and preventloss of liquid. The same procedure is repeated for the front ballast 260fill cap 265, front ballast 260 fill neck 263, and front ballast 260.However, in another implementation, the location of fill necks, drainnecks, fill windows and drain windows of the ballasts can locate in anarea other than the left component, facing external to the module base210.

2.2.3 Closing Panel

in one implementation as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, a first end of theclosing panel 286 connects to the left component 220 via the set ofintra-assembly features 221, and a second end of the closing panel 286connects to the right component 230 via the set of intra-assemblyfeatures 231. The closing panel 286 is configured to install between theleft component 220 and the right component 230 proximal the rear fasciacomponent upper surface 214 of the module base 210 and configured toextend under the rear edge 292 of the solar panel 290. The rear panelretention structure 282 is mounted to the top surface of the closingpanel 286. In one variation, the module base 210 includes two rear panelretention structures, a left rear panel retention structure 282 and aright rear panel retention structure 282. The left rear panel retentionstructure 282 is mounted to a left section of the closing panel 286 andthe right rear panel retention structure 282 is mounted to a rightsection of the closing panel 286.

In one variation, the rear panel retention structures 282 retain thesolar panel at an offset distance from the top surface of the closingpanel. The offset distance permits passive ventilation from the exteriorof the first module base 210 to the interior of the module base 210,proximal the rear edge 292 of the solar panel 290.

2.2.4 Solar Panel Installation and Relief Sections

Generally, the left component 220 of the module base 210 includes: aleft front lower protrusion located proximal the front left edge andextending normal from the left lower edge of the left component 220, anda left rear lower protrusion located proximal the rear left edge andextending normal from the left lower edge of the left component 220. Theright component 230 of the module base 210 includes: a right front lowerprotrusion located proximal the front right edge and extending normalfrom the right lower edge of the right component 230, and a right rearlower protrusion located proximal the rear right edge and extendingnormal from the right lower edge of the right component 230. The modulebase 210 further includes: left lower relief sections 223 between theleft lower protrusions, and right lower relief sections 233 between theright lower protrusions to accommodate footwear during installation ofthe solar panel 290 on the module base 210.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7 , the user transports the solar panel 290 tothe module base 210 - which is now weighed down by the filled ballast -and the user’s foot inserts into the left lower relief section 222 ofthe module base 210 as the user steps proximal the module base 210.Therefore, the left lower relief section 222 reduces the likelihood ofinjury occurring to the user’s foot and reduces the likelihood that theuser will lose balance while manipulating a heavy load - such as thesolar panel 290 - a distance from the user’s center of gravity,potentially causing a fall or further injury.

The module base 210 includes: left upper relief sections 222 between theupper protrusions of the left component, and right upper relief sections232 between the right upper protrusions. Each upper relief section 222,232 is configured to receive a hand (between the upper protrusions)during installation of the solar panel 290 on the module base 210. Whenthe distance between the lower face of the solar panel 290 and the upperedge of an upper protrusion of the left component 220 becomes less thanthe nominal width of a human hand, the upper relief section 222 of theleft component 220 accepts the user’s hand, reducing the likelihood ofinjury.

The user places the front edge 294 of the solar panel 290 on the forwardpanel retention structure, with the aid of a set of spring elementsfixed to the left component 220 and the right component 230. The modulebase 210 includes: spring elements 242 fixed to the left component 220proximal the upper front edge, and fixed to the right component 230proximal the upper front edge and configured to cooperate with togetherto center the solar panel 290 on the module base 210 and to guide thefront edge 294 of the solar panel 290 into the front panel retentionstructures 243 during installation of the solar panel 290 on the modulebase 210. The user maneuvers the front edge 294 of the solar panel 290toward the front section 211 of the module base 210 and maneuvers thesolar panel 290 into contact with a first spring element 242. The firstspring element 242 exerts a force on the solar panel 290, guiding thesolar panel 290 toward and into contact with the second spring element242, centering the solar panel 290 on the module base 210. The user thenmaneuvers the front edge 294 of the solar panel 290 into contact with afront panel retention structure 243. Once the front edge 294 of thesolar panel 290 is centered on the module base 210 and in contact withthe front panel retention structure 243, the user pivots the solar panel290 such that the rear edge 292 of the solar panel 290 travels towardthe rear panel retention structure 282 of the module base 210. As theuser lowers the solar panel 290 toward the rear section 212 of themodule base 210, the user’s hand is received by the upper relief section222, 232. The rear panel retention structure 282 is adjusted to thedimension of the solar panel 290, and the clamping feature is tightened.The assembled power generation unit is shown in FIG. 4 .

2.2.5 Panel Retention Structures

Generally, the module base 210 includes a front panel retentionstructure 243, fixed to a front section upper surface 213 of the modulebase 210 and configured to retain a front edge of a solar panel 290 onthe module base 210. In one implementation, the front panel retentionstructure 243 includes: a retention base defining a threaded throughbore and fixed to the front section upper surface 213 of the module base210; a retention fastener defining a clamping feature and a threadedshaft and configured to insert into the threaded through bore of theretention base. The retention base is configured such that a distal endof the threaded shaft can extend beyond the lower surface of thethreaded through bore, allowing the front panel retention structure 243to constrain solar panels of different thicknesses. In one variation,the module base 210 can include a left front panel retention structure243 and a right front panel retention structure 243.

In one implementation as shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 , the module base210 includes a rear panel retention structure 282 that defines a channel252 extending along a longitudinal axis between and parallel to the leftcomponent 220 and right component 230 of the module base 210, andconfigured to carry moisture away from a lower surface of the solarpanel 290; a rear retention fastener 254; a rear clamping feature 255mounted with rotational freedom to the rear retention fastener 254; anda rear retention insert 253 constrained within the channel 252,configured to run longitudinally along the channel 252 and configured toaccept the rear retention fastener 254.

In one implementation, the rear panel retention structure 282 includes:a channel 252 configured in a u-shaped cross-section (e.g., a Unistrut);and a rear clamping feature 255 configured to constrain the upper rearedge 292 of the solar panel 290 and configured to extend upwardly fromthe rear retention insert 253 and maintain an orientation perpendicularto the channel 252, and mounted to the rear retention fastener 254 suchthat the retention fastener 254 is free to rotate. The rear retentioninsert 253 can define a nut with a threaded bore, and the rear retentionfastener 254 can define a threaded shaft (e.g., a bolt) configured toinsert into the threaded bore of the rear retention insert 253.

In another implementation, the channel 252 can define a u-shapedcross-section with a recess 256 at the base of the “u,” the recessconfigured to carry moisture away from the rear retention insert 253 andrelease moisture below and away from the solar panel 290. The recess 256also functions as relief for the rear retention fastener 254, allowingthe distal end of the rear retention fastener 254 to extend beyond thelower face of the threaded bore of the rear retention insert 253,thereby allowing the rear retention structure 282 to constrain panels ofdifferent thicknesses. In one variation, the module base 210 can includea rear left panel retention structure 282 and rear right panel retentionstructure 282.

In one variation, the rear panel retention structure 282 extends beyondthe rear section upper surface 214 to retain a solar panel 290 with alongitudinal dimension greater than the longitudinal dimension of theupper surface of the first modular base. The channel 252 is configuredto be oversized and extend beyond the rear edge of the closing panel 286to provide a greater longitudinal distance for the rear retention insert253 to travel, and thereby accommodate a solar panel 290 with a greaterlongitudinal dimension.

The solar panel 290 is secured to the module base 210 via the frontpanel retention structure 243 and the rear panel retention structure282. The module base 210 defines an assembled width greater than thewidth of the solar panel 290. The left component 220 defines a width toextend under the left edge of the solar panel 290 to support the solarpanel 290 and to extend outward beyond the left edge of the solar panel290 to protect the edges of solar panels of different widths fromimpact. The first right component 230 similarly defines a width toextend under the right edge of the solar panel 290 and extend outwardbeyond the right edge of the solar panel 290. Once the solar panel 290is secured, the module base 210 and the solar panel 290 form a powergeneration unit.

2.2.6 Power Generation Unit Use and Ventilation

In one example as shown in FIG. 9 , a power output connection, connectedto the solar panel 290, is passed through the electrical port on theleft component 220. The user connects the power output connection to anelectric weed trimmer and proceeds to trim weeds in the user’s garden.While in operation, the left upper relief 222, left lower relief 223,right upper relief 232, and right lower relief 233, cooperate toaccommodate additional passive ventilation between the interior of thefirst module base 210 and the exterior of the first module base 210.

In one implementation, the module base can include additional lowerrelief sections arranged at a lower edge of the front fascia component240 and/or a lower relief section arranged at a lower edge of the rearfascia component 250, allowing passive ventilation between the interiorof the module base 210 and the exterior of the first module base 210.

2.2.7 Disassembly and Storage

After weed trimming is complete, the power output disconnects from theweed trimmer, and the power output connection separates from theelectrical port on the left component 220. The rear panel retentionstructures disengage to release the rear edge 292 of the solar panel290. The left upper relief 222 in the left component 220 receives theuser’s hand, and the lower relief 223 of the left component 220 receivesthe user’s foot. The user removes the solar panel 290 from the modulebase 210. The ballast drain cap detaches from the front ballast drainneck 264 and the front volume of liquid drains from the front ballast260. When the front volume of liquid is drained, the front ballast draincap 266 attaches to the front ballast 260 drain neck 264. In onevariation, the front ballast 260 fill cap 265 also detaches from thefront ballast 260 fill neck 263, and atmosphere vents into the frontballast 260, increasing the draining speed of the front volume ofliquid. The front ballast 260 separates from the front ballast 260retention structure. The front ballast drain cap 276 detaches from therear ballast drain neck 274 and the rear volume of liquid drains fromthe rear ballast 270. When the rear volume of liquid is drained, thefront ballast drain cap 276 attaches to the rear ballast 270 drain neck274. In one variation, the front ballast fill cap 275 also detaches fromthe rear ballast 270 fill neck 273, and atmosphere vents into the rearballast 270, increasing the draining speed of the rear volume of liquid.The rear ballast 270 removes from the rear ballast 270 retentionstructure. The closing panel 286 detaches from the right component 230and the left component 220. The front fascia component 240 detaches fromthe right component 230 and the left component 220, and the rear fasciacomponent 250 detaches from the right component 230 and the leftcomponent 220. The front ballast 260, rear ballast 270, front fasciacomponent 240, rear fascia component 250, and closing panel 286, arrangein the nested configuration of the second layer within the storage case202. The left component 220 and the right component 230 arrange in thenested configuration in the first layer above the second layer withinthe storage case 202 with the top edge of the left component 220adjacent to the top edge of the right component 230. The storage case202 is placed in a storage location until the next time the userrequires power.

2.3 Second Module

In one example as shown in FIG. 9 , the user procures a second modulebase 210 to support a second solar panel 290. In this variation, a firstpower generation unit is previously installed on the roof of the user’shome and connected to her home to provide supplemental power. Uponreceipt of the second module base 210, the user transports thecomponents to the roof. The components assemble into a second modulebase 210 located adjacent to the first power generation unit, and asecond solar panel 290 inserts into the front panel retention structure243 and is constrained on the second module base 210 by the rear panelretention structure 282, thereby assembling a second power generationunit. The second power output of the second power generation unit isconnected to the user’s home. The user can now generate additional powercompared to the power generated by the single power generation unit.

2.3.1 Connecting Module Bases

In one variation as shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8E, and 8F, the first modulebase 210 and the second module base 210 can be connected via a set oflatching mechanisms in order to maintain a target gap between the firstmodule base 210 and the second module base 210. The left component 220of the first module base 210 includes: a front latch 229 on the frontedge, a rear latch 229 on the rear edge, and a left electrical port 224.The right component 230 of a second module base 210 is configured toabut the left component 220 of the first module base 210 and includes: afront latch receiver 239 on the front right edge of the right component230 of the second module base 210 configured to engage the front latch229 of the left component 220 of the first module base 210 and retainthe front section of the first module base 210 adjacent to the frontsection of the second module base 210, a rear latch receiver 239 on therear right edge of the right component 230 of the second module base 210configured to engage the rear latch 229 of the left component 220 of thefirst module base 210 and retain the rear section of the first modulebase 210 adjacent to the rear section of the second module base 210, anda right electrical port 234 aligned with and configured to pass anelectrical connection to the first left electrical port 224 of the leftcomponent 220 of the first module base 210. The front latch 229, frontlatch receiver 239, rear latch 229, and rear latch receiver 239cooperate to constrain the first module base 210 and the second modulebase 210 proximal one another on a level surface.

In another variation as shown in FIGS. 8C, 8D, 8G, and 8H, the firstmodule base 210 and second module base 210 are positioned on anon-planar terrain surface. The first module base 210 is configured totransiently locate on a nonplanar terrain surface, and the second modulebase 210 is configured to transiently locate on the nonplanar terrainsurface adjacent the first module base 210. The front latch 229 and therear latch 229 define a latch length configured to maintain a target gapbetween the lower edge of the left component 220 of the first modulebase 210 and the lower edge of the right component 230 of the secondmodule base 210. The rear latch 229 and the rear latch receiver 239cooperate to retain the lower edge of the left component 220 of thefirst module base 210 and the lower edge of the right component 230 ofthe second module base 210 when located on a convex section of thenonplanar terrain surface. The upper rear corner of the left component220 of the first module base 210 and the upper rear corner of the rightcomponent 230 of the second module base 210 are not connected, enablinga variable gap between the upper rear corner of the left component 220of the first module base 210 and the upper rear corner of the rightcomponent 230 of the second module base 210 to accommodate variance inthe nonplanar terrain surface.

Generally, the target gap is selected to be less than the nominalthickness of a human child’s hand, and the electrical port in the leftcomponent 220 and the electrical component in right component 230 arelocated at a distance greater than the nominal length of a human child’shand, to prevent a child (or adult) from inadvertently contacting theelectrical connection passing through the electrical ports. The frontlatch 229 and the rear latch 229 cooperate to maintain the target gapbetween the lower edge of the left component 220 of the first modulebase 210 and the lower edge of the right component 230 of the secondmodule base 210 less than a nominal human hand width. The leftelectrical port 224 is located at a distance from the upper edge of theleft component 220 greater than a nominal human hand length; and theright electrical port 234 is located at a distance from the upper edgeof the right component 230 greater than a nominal human hand length.

In yet another variation as shown in FIG. 7 , the first module base 210and second module base 210 are positioned on a concave non-planarterrain surface. The first left component 220 includes an upper latch229 located at the upper rear corner of the left component 220 of thefirst module base 210. The right component 230 includes an upper latchreceiver 239 at the upper rear corner of the right component 230 of thesecond module base 210. The first upper latch 229 and the second upperlatch receiver 239 cooperate to retain the upper rear corner of the leftcomponent 220 of the first module base 210 and the upper rear corner ofthe right component 230 of the second module base 210 when both modulebases are located adjacent to one another on a concave section of thenonplanar terrain surface. The upper latch 229 and upper latch receiver239 cooperate to maintain a target gap between the upper rear corner ofthe left component 220 of the first module base 210 and the upper rearcorner of the right component 230 of the second module base 210 lessthat a nominal human hand width. The left electrical port 224 is locateda distance from the lower edge of the left component 220 greater than anominal human hand length; and the right electrical port 234 is locateda distance from the lower edge of the right component 230 greater than anominal human hand length. In one implementation, the lower reliefsections 223 and 233 can accommodate undulations in the terrain,reducing the likelihood of the module base 210 becoming high-centered orpeaked on a raised contour of terrain. The module base 210 is preventedfrom rocking or tilting on a section of imperfectly flat terrain byaccommodating undulations in the terrain via the lower relief sectionsand maintaining a set of points of contact with the terrain at the lowerprotrusions. In a variation of this implementation, lower reliefsections are also included at the lower face of the front fasciacomponent 240 and the lower face of the rear fascia component 250.

2.3.2 Adjustable Contact Surfaces

Further, to facilitate more convenient positioning of a module base 210on uneven non-planar terrain, the module base 210 includes severaladjustable contact surfaces 299. The front left lower protrusionincludes an adjustable contact surface 299 arranged between the lowersurface of the front left lower protrusion and the nonplanar terrainsurface. The front right lower protrusion includes an adjustable contactsurface 299 arranged between the lower surface of the front right lowerprotrusion and the nonplanar terrain surface. The rear left lowerprotrusion includes an adjustable contact surface 299 arranged betweenthe lower surface of the rear left lower protrusion and the nonplanarterrain surface. The rear right lower protrusion includes an adjustablecontact surface 299 arranged between the lower surface of the rear rightlower protrusion and the nonplanar terrain surface.

For example, the user wishes to power lights decorating the large treein the wintertime. The tree is located a distance from the user’s housegreater than a practical length of an extension cord. Additionally,since the daylight hours are short in winter, the amount of power asolar panel 290 can harvest is limited. The user decides to use twosolar panels to harvest a greater amount of solar energy to power anenergy storage cell that will provide power the lights at night. Theuser assembles two module bases near the tree, on a convex, undulating,non-planar terrain. The user adjusts the length of the adjustablecontact surfaces of the first module base 210 and the second module base210 such that each lower protrusion of each module base 210 is supportedby an adjustable contact surface 299 in contact with the non-planarterrain. The user engages the front latch 229 of the first module base210 with the front latch receiver 239 of the second module base 210, andsimilarly engages the rear latch 229 of the first module base 210 withthe rear latch receiver 239 of the second module base 210, fixing thefirst module base 210 to the second module base 210 and maintaining thetarget gap between the left lower edge of the first module base 210 andthe right lower edge of the second module base 210. The user places asolar panel 290 on each module base 210, producing two power generationunits. The user passes the power output connection through the leftelectrical port 224 of the first module base 210 and through the rightelectrical port 234 of the second module base 210, thereby reducingpotential inadvertent contact with the electrical connection. The userconnects the power output from each power generation unit to thebattery. The user then connects lights decorating the tree to the energystorage cell.

In another example, the user requires power to perform yard work in thegarden, but also requires a power generation system connected to herhome, such as a power generation unit on the roof. The user travels tothe roof and disconnects the second power generation unit, removes thesecond solar panel 290, drains the front and rear ballast 270, anddisassembles the second module base 210. The user transports thecomponents of the second module base 210 and the second solar panel 290to the garden. The user re-assembles the second module base 210, fillsthe front ballast 260 and the rear ballast 270, and places the secondsolar panel 290 onto the second module base 210 to reassemble the secondpower generation unit. The user connects the second power output to theelectric weed trimmer and proceeds to trim weeds in the garden. Whenfinished weed trimming, the user disconnects the second power generationunit, removes the second solar panel 290, drains the front and rearballast 270, and disassembles the second module base 210. The usertransports the components back to the roof, reassembles the secondmodule base 210, refills the ballast, replaces the second solar panel290, and reconnects the second power output to the home.

In another example, the user wishes to power a pair of electric shearsfor pruning and a speaker in the garden so the user may listen to musicwhile performing gardening tasks. The user assembles two module basesand fills the front and rear ballast 270 near a large tree that requirespruning, on a concave, undulating, non-planar terrain. The user adjuststhe length of the adjustable contact surfaces of the first module base210 and the second module base 210 such that each lower protrusion ofeach module base 210 is supported by an adjustable contact surface 299in contact with the non-planar terrain. The user engages the upper latch229 of the first module base 210 with the upper latch receiver 239 ofthe second module base 210, fixing the first module base 210 to thesecond module base 210 and maintaining the target gap between the leftupper rear corner of the first module base 210 and the right upper rearcorner of the second module base 210. The user places a solar panel 290on each module base 210, producing two power generation units. The userpasses the power output connection through the left electrical port 224of the first module base 210 and through the right electrical port 234of the second module base 210, thereby reducing potential inadvertentcontact with the electrical connection. The user connects the poweroutput from the first power generation unit to the electric shears andconnects the power output from the second power generation unit to thespeaker.

2.3.3 Electrical Connections

Generally, the left component 220 and the right component 230 of themodule base 210 include a left electrical port 224 and right electricalport 234, respectively. The left electrical port 224 and the rightelectrical port 234 are arranged symmetrically and uniformly such that,when a first module base 210 is arranged adjacent to a second modulebase 210, the left electrical port 224 is aligned to the rightelectrical port 234, and an electrical connection of minimal length canpass between the left electrical port 224 and the right electrical port234. In one variation, the left electrical port 224 and the rightelectrical port 234 are positioned a distance away from the upper edgeof the module base 210 greater than the nominal length of a human hand.Thus, when the first module base 210 and the second module base 210 areconnected via an upper rear latch 229 and upper rear latch receiver 239,the position of the electrical port cooperates with the target gapmaintained by the upper rear latch 229 and upper rear latch receiver 239to reduce the likelihood of inadvertent contact with the electricalconnection between the first module base 210 and the second module base210. In another variation, the left electrical port 224 and the rightelectrical port 234 are positioned a distance away from the lower edgeof the module base 210 greater than the nominal length of a human handand cooperate with the target gap maintained by the front latch 229 andfront latch receiver 239 in cooperation with the rear latch 229 and rearlatch receiver 239, to reduce the likelihood of inadvertent contact withthe electrical connection. In yet another variation, the left electricalport 224 and the right electrical port 234 are positioned a distanceaway from the rear edge of the module base 210 greater than the nominallength of a human hand and cooperate with the target gap maintained bythe rear latch 229 and the rear latch receiver 239 in cooperation withthe upper latch 229 and the upper latch receiver 239, to reduce thelikelihood of inadvertent contact with the electrical connection.

2.3.4 Temporary Use, Storage, and Portability

In one example, the user can assemble module bases and solar panels intopower generation units on the user’s roof and connects the power outputto their home to provide supplemental power generation. When the userrequires power in another location - such as the garden - the usertravels to the roof, disconnects the power generation units from thehouse, disassembles the power generation units and module bases,transports the components to the garden, reassembles the module basesand solar panels into power generation units, and connects the poweroutput to the required device.

In another example, the module base 210 can be disassembled andtemporarily stored in response to an event, such as a snowstormforecasted to deposit an amount of snow that would bury the first andsecond module bases that are assembled and in operation in an outdoorenvironment. The user can disassemble the first and second module base210 and store them in a place protected from snowfall until the snowfallis complete. After the snow has fallen; the user can reassemble themodule bases and solar panels into power generation units and reconnectthe power outputs to produce and use power.

2.4 Additional Modules

Generally, a user can procure additional module bases and solar panelsto create an array or multiple arrays of power generation units. Due tothe low relative power generation of a single solar panel 290 incomparison to other forms of power generation, an array of several powergeneration units would be advantageous to a user.

For example, a user procures additional module bases to create an arrayof power generation units and assembles the module bases on the levelsurface of her roof. The user assembles a set of module bases adjacentto one another and fills the front ballast 260 and rear ballast 270 ofeach module base 210 with a volume of liquid. The user arranges the setof module bases such that a left component 220 of a first module base210 is parallel and adjacent to a right component 230 of a second modulebase 210, and a left component 220 of the second module base 210 isparallel and adjacent to a right component 230 of a third module base210, and so on for the remaining module bases in the set of modulebases. The user connects the first module base 210 to the second modulebase 210 by engaging the front latch 229 of the first module base 210with the front latch retention structure 239 of the second module base210 and engaging the rear latch 229 of the first module base 210 withthe rear latch 229 retention structure of the module base. The usercontinues until all module bases in the set of module bases areconnected via the front latch 229 and front latch retention structure239 and the rear latch 229 and rear latch retention structure 239. Theuser places a solar panel 290 on each module base 210 to create a set ofpower generation units. The user runs the power output connection of themodule base 210 through the electrical port of the module base 210 andthrough the electrical port of the adjacent module base 210 and connectsthe power output connection to her home’s electrical system.

In another variation shown in FIG. 7 , the user arranges a set of modulebases in an array configuration on an undulating portion of non-planarterrain including both concave and convex sections. As shown in FIGS.8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, and 8H, the module base 210 further includesupper latches and corresponding upper latch receivers, which cooperatewith the front latches and front latch receivers and rear latches andrear latch receivers to permit flexibility in the orientation ofadjacent module bases relative to each other and allow the assembly ofan array - including multiple module bases - on a section of terrainthat is not level or planar. Imperfectly level terrain may beencountered when arranging a number of module bases to produce a powerlevel sufficient for a user’s needs proximal the location in which thepower is required, particularly in an outdoor or natural environment, ora remote outdoor location situated away from or devoid of establishedinfrastructure such as pavement, leveled terrain, and power connections.

For example, the user arranges the set of module bases in a line, withthe right component 230 of a first module base 210 parallel and adjacentto the left component 220 of a second module base 210, with the rightcomponent 230 of the second module base 210 parallel and adjacent to theleft component 220 of a third module base 210, and so on, along anundulating surface, with a concave section and a convex section. Theuser connects a first module base 210, positioned in the concavesection, to a second module base 210 positioned in the concave section,adjacent to the first module base 210, by engaging the upper latch 229of the first module base 210 with the upper latch receiver 239 of thesecond module base 210, thereby maintaining a target gap between theupper rear corner of the first module base 210 and the upper rear cornerof the second module base 210. The user connects the second module base210, positioned in the concave section, to a third module base 210positioned on the border of the concave section and the convex section,adjacent to the second module base 210 by engaging the upper latch 229of the second module base 210 with the upper latch receiver 239 of thethird module base 210, thereby maintaining a target gap between theupper rear corner of the second module base 210 and the upper rearcorner of the third module base 210. The user connects the third modulebase 210 positioned on the border of the concave section and the convexsection to a fourth module base 210, positioned in the convex section,adjacent to the third module base 210 by engaging the front lower latchof the third module base 210 with the front lower latch receiver of thefourth module base 210, and by engaging the rear lower latch of thethird module base 210 with the rear lower latch receiver of the fourthmodule base 210, thereby maintaining a target gap between the lower edgeof the third module base 210 and the lower edge of the fourth modulebase 210. The user connects the fourth module base 210, positioned inthe convex section to a fifth module base 210 positioned in the convexsection adjacent to the fourth module base 210, by engaging the frontlower latch of the fourth module base 210 with the front lower latchreceiver of the fifth module base 210, and by engaging the rear lowerlatch of the fourth module base 210 with the rear lower latch receiverof the fifth module base 210, thereby maintaining a target gap betweenthe lower edge of the fourth module base 210 and the lower edge of thefifth module base 210. The power output connection from each solar panel290 in the array is routed through the electrical ports of the modulebases and through the right electrical port or the left electrical portof one of the two module bases positioned on the end of the arrayconfiguration, similar to the previous example. The power outputconnection is then connected to a device requiring power. The systemsand methods described herein can be embodied and/or implemented at leastin part as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable mediumstoring computer-readable instructions. The instructions can be executedby computer-executable components integrated with the application,applet, host, server, network, website, communication service,communication interface, hardware/firmware/software elements of an ownercomputer or mobile device, wristband, smartphone, or any suitablecombination thereof. Other systems and methods of the embodiment can beembodied and/or implemented at least in part as a machine configured toreceive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readableinstructions. The instructions can be executed by computer-executablecomponents integrated by computer-executable components integrated withapparatuses and networks of the type described above. Thecomputer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer readablemedia such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical devices (CD orDVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable device. Thecomputer-executable component can be a processor, but any suitablededicated hardware device can (alternatively or additionally) executethe instructions.

As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detaileddescription and from the figures and claims, modifications and changescan be made to the embodiments of the invention without departing fromthe scope of this invention as defined in the following claims.

I claim:
 1. A system comprising a first module base comprising: • afirst left component defining: ◯ a first left triangular structurecomprising: ▪ a first left front edge of a first front height; and ▪ afirst left rear edge of a first rear height greater than the first frontheight; and ◯ a first set of left intra-assembly features; • a firstright component defining: ◯ a first right triangular structurecomprising: ▪ a first right front edge of the first front height; and ▪a first right rear edge of the first rear height; and ◯ a first set ofright intra-assembly features; • a first front fascia component: ◯configured to couple to the first left component via the first set ofleft intra-assembly features; ◯ configured to couple to the rightcomponent via the first set of right intra-assembly features; and ◯defining a first front ballast support surface; • a first rear fasciacomponent: ○ configured to couple to the first left component via thefirst set of left intra-assembly features; ◯ configured to couple to thefirst right component via the first set of right intra-assemblyfeatures; and ◯ defining a first rear ballast support surface; • a firstfront ballast: ◯ defining a first front enclosed volume configured toretain a first front volume of fluid; and ◯ configured to seat on thefirst front ballast support surface to load a first front section of thefirst module base; • a first rear ballast: ◯ defining a first rearenclosed volume configured to retain a first rear volume of fluid; and ◯configured to seat on the first rear ballast support surface to load afirst rear section of the first module base; • a first front left panelretention structure: ◯ coupled to a first left front section uppersurface of the first module base; and ◯ configured to retain a firstfront edge of a first solar panel on the first module base; • a firstright front left panel retention structure: ◯ coupled to a first rightfront section upper surface of the first module base; and ◯ configuredto retain a first front edge of a first solar panel on the first modulebase; • a first left rear panel retention structure: ◯ coupled to afirst left rear section upper surface of the first module base; and ◯adjustable over a range of longitudinal positions to retain the firstrear edge of the first solar panel on the first module base; and • afirst right rear panel retention structure: ◯ coupled to a first rightrear section upper surface of the first module base; and ◯ adjustableover a range of longitudinal positions to retain the first rear edge ofthe first solar panel on the first module base.
 2. The system of claim1: • wherein the first left component further defines: ◯ a first frontlatch on the first front edge; ◯ a first rear latch on the first rearedge; and ◯ a first left electrical port; • wherein the first rightcomponent further defines: ◯ a first front latch receiver on the firstfront right edge; ◯ a first rear latch receiver on the first rear rightedge; and ◯ a first right electrical port; • further comprising: ◯ asecond module base comprising: ▪ a second left component defining: • asecond left triangular structure comprising; ◯ a second left front edgeof a second front height; and ◯ a second left rear edge of a second rearheight greater than the second front height; • a second set of leftintra-assembly features comprising: • a second front latch on the firstfront edge; • a second rear latch on the first rear edge; and • a secondleft electrical port; ▪ a second right component defining: • a secondright triangular structure comprising: ◯ a second right front edge ofthe second front height; and ◯ a second right rear edge of the secondrear height; • a second front latch receiver on the second front rightedge and configured to engage the first front latch of the first leftcomponent to retain the first front section of the first module base tothe second front section of the second module base; • a second rearlatch receiver on the second rear right edge and configured to engagethe first rear latch of the first left component to retain the firstrear section of the first module base to the second rear section of thesecond module base; • second right electrical port aligned with andconfigured to pass an electrical connection to the first left electricalport; and • a second set of right intra-assembly features; and ▪configured to abut the first left component of the first module base; ◯a second front fascia component: ▪ configured to couple to the secondleft component via the second set of left intra-assembly features; ▪configured to couple to the right component via the second set of rightintra-assembly features; and ▪ defining a second front ballast supportsurface; ◯ a second rear fascia component: ▪ configured to couple to thesecond left component via the second set of left intra-assemblyfeatures; ▪ configured to couple to the second right component via thesecond set of right intra-assembly features; and ▪ defining a secondrear ballast support surface; ◯ second front ballast: ▪ defining asecond front enclosed volume configured to retain a second front volumeof fluid; and ▪ configured to seat on the second front ballast supportsurface to load a second front section of the second module base; ◯second rear ballast: ▪ defining a second rear enclosed volume configuredto retain a second rear volume of fluid; and ▪ configured to seat on thesecond rear ballast support surface to load a second rear section of thesecond module base; ◯ a second front left panel retention structure: ▪coupled to a second left front section upper surface of the secondmodule base; and ▪ configured to retain a second front edge of a secondsolar panel on the second module base; ◯ a second right front left panelretention structure: ▪ coupled to a second right front section uppersurface of the second module base; and ▪ configured to retain a secondfront edge of a second solar panel on the second module base; ◯ a secondleft rear panel retention structure: ▪ coupled to a second left rearsection upper surface of the second module base; and ▪ adjustable over arange of longitudinal positions to retain the second rear edge of thesecond solar panel on the second module base; and ◯ a second right rearpanel retention structure: ▪ coupled to a second right rear sectionupper surface of the second module base; and ▪ adjustable over a rangeof longitudinal positions to retain the second rear edge of the secondsolar panel on the second module base.
 3. The system of claim 2: •wherein the first module base is configured to transiently locate on anonplanar terrain surface; • wherein the second module base isconfigured to transiently locate on the nonplanar terrain surfaceadjacent the first module base; and • wherein the first front latch andthe first rear latch define a first latch length configured to; ◯maintain a target gap between a first lower edge of the first leftcomponent and a second lower edge of the second right component; and ○enable a variable gap between a first upper rear corner of the of theleft component and a second upper rear corner of the of the second rightcomponent to accommodate variance in the nonplanar terrain surface. 4.The system of claim 3: • wherein the first front latch and the firstrear latch cooperate to maintain the target gap, between the first leftcomponent and the second right component, less that a nominal human handwidth; • wherein the first left electrical port is located a distancefrom the top edge of the left component greater than a nominal humanhand length; and • wherein the second right electrical port is located adistance from the top edge of the right component greater than a nominalhuman hand length.
 5. The system of claim 3, wherein: • the first leftcomponent further defines a first upper latch located at the upper rearleft corner; • the second right component further defines a second upperlatch receiver at the upper rear right corner; • the first rear latchand the second rear latch receiver cooperate to retain the first loweredge of the first left component and the second lower edge of the secondright component when positioned on a convex section of the nonplanarterrain surface; and • the first upper latch and the second upper latchreceiver cooperate to retain the first upper rear corner of the firstleft component and the second upper rear corner of the second rightcomponent when positioned on a concave section of the nonplanar terrainsurface.
 6. The system of claim 1: • the first left component furthercomprising: ◯ a first left front lower protrusion: ▪ located proximalthe first front left edge; and ▪ extending normal from a first leftlower edge; ◯ a first left rear lower protrusion: ▪ located proximal thefirst rear left edge; and ▪ extending normal from the first left loweredge; ◯ a first left front upper protrusion: ▪ located proximal thefirst front left edge; and ▪ extending normal from a first upper leftedge; ◯ a first left rear upper protrusion: ▪ located proximal the firstrear left edge; and ▪ extending normal from the first upper left edge; ◯a first left midpoint upper protrusion: ▪ located proximal a midpoint ofthe first upper left edge; and ▪ extending normal from the first upperleft edge; and • the first right component further comprising: ◯ a firstright front lower protrusion: ▪ located proximal the first front rightedge; and ▪ extending normal from a first right lower edge; ◯ a firstright rear lower protrusion: ▪ located proximal the first rear rightedge; and ▪ extending normal from the first right lower edge; ◯ a firstright front upper protrusion: ▪ located proximal the first front rightedge; and ▪ extending normal from a first upper right edge; ◯ a firstright rear upper protrusion: ▪ located proximal the first rear rightedge; and ▪ extending normal from the first upper right edge; and ◯ afirst right midpoint upper protrusion: ▪ located proximal a midpoint ofthe first upper right edge; and ▪ extending normal from the first upperright edge.
 7. The system of claim 6, further comprising: • a first leftlower relief section between the first left front lower protrusion andthe first left rear lower protrusion to accommodate passive ventilationbetween an interior of the first module base and an exterior of thefirst module base; • a first right lower relief section between thefirst right front lower protrusion and the first right rear lowerprotrusion to accommodate passive ventilation between the interior ofthe first module base and the exterior of the first module base; • afirst left lower relief section between the first left front upperprotrusion and the first left midpoint upper protrusion to accommodatepassive ventilation between the interior of the first module base andthe exterior of the first module base; • a first left rear upper reliefsection between the first left midpoint upper protrusion and the firstleft rear upper protrusion to accommodate passive ventilation betweenthe interior of the first module base and the exterior of the firstmodule base; • a first right lower relief section between the firstright front upper protrusion and the first right midpoint upperprotrusion to accommodate passive ventilation between the interior ofthe first module base and the exterior of the first module base; and • afirst right rear upper relief section between the first right midpointupper protrusion and the first right rear upper protrusion toaccommodate passive ventilation between the interior of the first modulebase and the exterior of the first module base.
 8. The system of claim6, further comprising: ◯ a first left lower relief section between thefirst left front lower protrusion and the first left rear lowerprotrusion to accommodate footwear during installation of the firstsolar panel on the first module base; ◯ a first right lower reliefsection between the first right front lower protrusion and the firstright rear lower protrusion to accommodate footwear during installationof the first solar panel on the first module base; ◯ a first left lowerrelief section between the first left front upper protrusion and thefirst left midpoint upper protrusion configured to receive a hand duringinstallation of the first solar panel on the first module base; ◯ afirst left rear upper relief section between the first left midpointupper protrusion and the first left rear upper protrusion configured toreceive a hand during installation of the first solar panel on the firstmodule base; ◯ a first right lower relief section between the firstright front upper protrusion and the first right midpoint upperprotrusion configured to receive a hand during installation of the firstsolar panel on the first module base; and ◯ a first right rear upperrelief section between the first right midpoint upper protrusion and thefirst right rear upper protrusion configured to receive a hand duringinstallation of the first solar panel on the first module base.
 9. Thesystem of claim 1: • wherein the front left panel retention structurefurther defines: ◯ a retention base; ◯ a retention fastener; and ◯ aclamping feature; • wherein the front right panel retention structurefurther defines: ◯ a retention base; ◯ a retention fastener; and ◯ aclamping feature; and • further comprising: ◯ a first left springelement fixed to the first left component proximal the first upper frontleft edge; and ◯ a first right spring element: ▪ fixed to the firstright component proximal the first upper front right edge; and ▪configured to cooperate with the first left spring element to center thefirst solar panel on the first module base and to guide the first frontedge of the first solar panel into the first front left panel retentionstructure and into the first front right panel retention structureduring installation of the first solar panel on the first module base.10. The system of claim 1: • wherein the first left component furtherdefines: ◯ a first rear ballast fill window proximal the first rear edgeof the first left component; ◯ a first rear ballast drain windowproximal the first rear edge of the first left component and below thefirst rear ballast fill window; ◯ a first front ballast fill windowproximal the first front edge of the first left component; and ◯ a firstfront ballast drain window proximal the first front edge of the firstleft component and below the first front ballast fill window; • whereinthe first rear ballast further defines: ◯ a first rear ballast fill neckconfigured to pass through the first rear ballast fill window; and ◯ afirst rear ballast drain neck configured to pass through the first rearballast drain window; • wherein the first front ballast further defines:◯ a first front ballast fill neck configured to pass through the firstfront ballast fill window; and ◯ a first front ballast drain neckconfigured to pass through the first front ballast drain window; and •further comprising: ◯ a first rear ballast fill cap configured toinstall on the first rear ballast fill neck and accessible through thefirst rear ballast fill window to fill the first rear ballast with thefirst rear volume of fluid; ◯ a first rear ballast drain cap configuredto install on the first rear ballast drain neck and accessible throughthe first rear ballast drain window to drain the first rear volume offluid from the first rear ballast; ○ a first front ballast fill capconfigured to install on the first front ballast fill neck andaccessible through the first front ballast fill window to fill the firstfront ballast with the first front volume of fluid; and ○ a first frontballast drain cap configured to install on the first front ballast drainneck and accessible through the first front ballast drain window todrain the first front volume of fluid from the first front ballast. 11.The system of claim 1: • wherein the first module base further comprisesa first closing panel: ◯ configured to install between the first leftcomponent and the first right component proximal the first rear sectionupper surface of the first module base; and ◯ configured to extend underthe first rear edge of the first solar panel; and • wherein the firstleft rear panel retention structure is mounted to a first left sectionof the first closing panel and the first right rear panel retentionstructure is mounted to a first right section of the first closingpanel.
 12. The system of claim 1: • wherein the first left rear panelretention structure defines: ◯ a channel: ▪ extending along alongitudinal axis, between and parallel to the left component and rightcomponent of the module base; and ▪ configured to carry moisture awayfrom a lower surface of the solar panel; ◯ a retention fastener; ◯ aclamping feature mounted to the retention fastener; and ◯ a retentioninsert constrained within the channel, configured to run longitudinallyalong the channel and configured to accept the retention fastener; and •wherein the first right rear panel retention structure defines: ◯ achannel: ▪ extending along a longitudinal axis, between and parallel tothe left component and right component of the module base; and ▪configured to carry moisture away from a lower surface of the solarpanel; ◯ a retention fastener; ◯ a clamping feature mounted to theretention fastener; and ◯ a retention insert constrained within thechannel, configured to run longitudinally along the channel andconfigured to accept the retention fastener.
 13. The system of claim 1:• wherein the first module base defines an assembled width greater thanthe width of the first solar panel; • wherein the first left componentdefines a width: ◯ to extend under the first left edge of the firstsolar panel; and ◯ to extend outward beyond the first left edge of thefirst solar panel; and • wherein the first right component defines awidth: ◯ to extend under the first right edge of the first solar panel;and ◯ to extend outward beyond the first left right of the first solarpanel.
 14. The system of claim 1: • wherein the front left lowerprotrusion further defines an adjustable contact surface arrangedbetween the lower surface of the front left lower protrusion and thenonplanar terrain surface; • wherein the front right lower protrusionfurther defines an adjustable contact surface arranged between the lowersurface of the front right lower protrusion and the nonplanar terrainsurface; • wherein the rear left lower protrusion further defines anadjustable contact surface arranged between the lower surface of therear left lower protrusion and the nonplanar terrain surface; and •wherein the rear right lower protrusion further defines an adjustablecontact surface arranged between the lower surface of the rear rightlower protrusion and the nonplanar terrain surface.
 15. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the rear panel retention surface extends beyond thefirst rear section upper surface to retain a first solar panel with alongitudinal dimension greater than the longitudinal dimension of theupper surface of the first modular base.
 16. The system of claim 1,wherein the left component, the right component, the front component,the rear component, and the closing panel are each formed as a hollowmolded polymer part.
 17. The system of claim 1: • further comprising astorage case; • wherein the left component and the right component areconfigured to nest in the storage case with the left top edge of theleft component facing right top edge of the right component forshipping; and • wherein the front ballast, rear ballast, front fascia,and rear fascia are configured to nest below the left component and theright component in the storage case for shipping.
 18. A systemcomprising a module base comprising: • a left component defining: ◯ aleft triangular structure comprising: ▪ a left front edge of a frontheight; and ▪ a left rear edge of a rear height greater than the frontheight; and ◯ a set of left intra-assembly features; • a right componentdefining: o a right triangular structure comprising: ▪ a right frontedge of the front height; and ▪ a right rear edge of the rear height;and ◯ a set of right intra-assembly features; • a front fasciacomponent: ◯ configured to couple to the left component via the set ofleft intra-assembly features; and ◯ configured to couple to the rightcomponent via the set of right intra-assembly features; • a rear fasciacomponent: ◯ configured to couple to the left component via the set ofleft intra-assembly features; and ◯ configured to couple to the rightcomponent via the set of right intra-assembly features; • a front panelretention structure: ◯ coupled to a front section upper surface of themodule base; and ◯ configured to retain a front edge of a solar panel onthe module base; and • a rear panel retention structure: ◯ coupled to arear section upper surface of the module base; and ◯ configured toretain the rear edge of the solar panel on the module base.
 19. Thesystem of claim 18: • wherein the front fascia component further definesa front ballast support surface; • wherein the rear fascia componentfurther defines a rear ballast support surface; and • furthercomprising: ◯ a front ballast: ▪ defining a front enclosed volumeconfigured to retain a front volume of fluid; and ▪ configured to seaton the front ballast support surface to load a front section of themodule base; and ◯ a rear ballast: ▪ defining a rear enclosed volumeconfigured to retain a rear volume of fluid; and ▪ configured to seat onthe rear ballast support surface to load a rear section of the modulebase.
 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the rear panel retentionstructure further defines: • a channel: ◯ extending along a longitudinalaxis, between and parallel to the left component and right component ofthe module base; and ◯ configured to carry moisture away from a lowersurface of the solar panel; • a retention fastener; • a clamping featuremounted to the retention fastener; and • a retention insert constrainedwithin the channel, configured to run longitudinally along the channeland configured to accept the retention fastener.